A dental implant is designed to replace the root of a tooth. When you lose a tooth, that gaping space can cause a variety of problems. The dental implant fills in this space and creates a base for a crown or replacement tooth. If you have lost a tooth or had one pulled, your dentist may recommend an implant to preserve the shape of your jaw and allow for a fresh, new synthetic tooth to be added.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Permanence: Because the dental implant fuses with the existing bone in your mouth, they become a permanent addition and don’t need to be removed or replaced regularly.
Improved appearance: Your mouth will retain its natural full shape and you won’t have to worry about shifting or changes in appearance when you have implants
Better speech and eating: If you have dentures, they can move about when you eat or speak. This slipping and sliding can cause slurred speech and make it difficult to chew your food. Since dental implants are permanent, they won’t slip or shift as you eat or talk.
What to Expect from the Process?
Your dentist will examine you and develop a treatment plan designed to address your individual needs, including implants if required. If you need an extraction, the tooth will be pulled first, and your dentist may augment the socket with some additional material to preserve the space for the implant. An artificial root made from titanium will be added to the space where your tooth was. Your jaw will need to heal for several weeks; as it heals it will grow around the new post and secure it in place.
A dental implant is a multi-step process; after about 12 months, the implant is ready to be fit for a crown, or replacement tooth. Your dentist will create a new tooth to fit into your mouth and add it to the implant, creating a new, permanent replacement for your lost tooth.
Your dentist can help you learn more about your tooth replacement options and come up with an individual treatment plan designed to restore your smile and improve your oral health.
If you’re missing any permanent teeth, you know how it can affect your daily life. Knowing you’re missing teeth can cause you to smile less and not feel as good about yourself as you could. Lost teeth can also make it more difficult to eat certain foods or pronounce words correctly.
If you’re considering dental implants to replace your missing teeth, you probably have a lot of questions. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Dental Implants, Exactly?
A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone. It works like an artificial tooth root, holding a replacement tooth securely in place. Many people choose dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth because implants are more permanent and natural-looking than dentures that can be removed from the mouth.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
In order to get dental implants, you will need to have healthy gums and bones. Your family dentist can tell if you would be a good candidate for dental implants by examining your teeth and mouth. Tobacco smoking decreases the success rate for dental implants and may cause complications. Most dentists urge patients to quit smoking before getting dental implants.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Dental implant surgery is a minor outpatient procedure. You will be given a local anesthetic, and then your dentist will make an incision in your gum to access the jaw bone. Your dentist will then drill a hole in the bone and insert the dental implant. Dentists usually wait three to six months before attaching the replacement tooth or teeth. This is to ensure the implant fuses correctly to your jaw bone.
How Do You Care for Your Implants?
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. You will need to care for them much like you do for your other teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are required. Dental implants can’t get cavities, but you can develop gum problems if you don’t keep them clean. You should also be sure to keep all your dental appointments since your dentist needs to check your implants periodically. Make sure to tell your dentist if you have any problems, such as bleeding or discomfort.
What is the Success Rate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants have a very high success rate. According to the Institute for Dental Implant Awareness, over 95 percent of the procedures are successful.
Do Dental Implants Last Forever?
If taken care of properly, dental implants can last throughout your lifetime. They are considered a permanent solution to the problem of missing teeth. By comparison, removable bridges typically only last ten years, while partial dentures last just three to five years.
What is the Cost of Dental Implants?
Many factors contribute to the cost of your dental implants. One such factor is whether you need just one tooth replaced or several. Another factor is your dental insurance and what it covers. According to the Canadian Dental Association, some dental plans may not cover implants. At your initial examination, ask your dentist for a cost estimate. You may also need to contact your insurance company to see if they cover any of the cost.
The decision to get dental implants can be life-changing. Consider these factors, and contact your dental office if you have any further questions.
Looking for a Dentist in Mississauga for Dental Implants consultation or any other related Information ? Contact Us today.
You know your oral health is important. If you don’t take proper care of your teeth, it can affect many aspects of your overall health and wellbeing. One of the most important ways to care for your teeth is to visit your family dentist regularly. But how often do you really need to get your teeth cleaned?
Individualized Cleaning Recommendations
For many years, dentists recommended patients visit their dental office for a dental exam and tooth cleaning cleaning every six months. But recent research has found that this recommendation isn’t right for every person. The Canadian Dental Association now recommends consulting with your dentist to find out how often you need your teeth cleaned.
Why the Change?
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that frequency of dental visits is best based on a patient’s risk for periodontal, or gum, disease. Patients at a higher risk benefited from cleanings more often than every six months. Those at a low risk could have their teeth cleaned just once a year with no adverse effects. It’s important to get an individualized recommendation from your dentist after a thorough examination.
Periodontal Disease Facts
Periodontal disease is very common–in fact, seven out of ten Canadians will develop it in their lifetimes. It can range from mild gingivitis to more serious periodontitis. Gum disease is inflammation of the mouth that, if left untreated, can cause you to lose teeth. Your dentist can easily diagnose periodontal disease. Deep and frequent cleanings can help stop the spread of gum disease.
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take, and What Can I Expect?
Usually, dental cleanings take only 30 minutes to an hour to complete. A dental hygienist will use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Some patients experience soreness and slight bleeding. After your cleaning, your dentist will often examine your teeth and may order x-rays of your mouth.
How to Take Care of Teeth Between Cleanings
No matter how often your dentist recommends cleanings, you will need to properly clean your own teeth at home. This should include a routine of brushing and flossing. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth clean:
The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice each day. They also recommend flossing at least once in a 24-hour period.
Aim to brush for at least two minutes. To help you meet this goal, set a timer or play a favorite song while you brush.
Toothpaste should contain at least 1,350 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride to protect your teeth from decay.
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. Toothbrushes with frayed bristles become less effective at removing plaque.
If you’re not sure how to properly floss your teeth, ask! Your dental hygienist will be happy to show you the right technique.
Your teeth are as individual as you are. Your dentist can recommend an oral health plan based on your risk factors for periodontal disease and other aspects of your dental health. Visit your dentist for a cleaning as often as recommended, and you’ll find your overall health with benefit.
Damaged or missing teeth are a problem for thousands of Canadians. Thankfully, your dentist has many dental restoration techniques for these problems. Here are some of the most common types of dental restoration and what you need to know about them.
Fillings
Fillings are used when tooth decay causes a small hole, or cavity, in your tooth. Fillings close up the hole, stopping the spread of tooth decay.
Several types of fillings are available, including:
Amalgam: This silver-coloured filling is the most common type currently used in Canada, according to the Canadian Dental Association. Amalgam fillings are made of several types of metal. They are very strong and inexpensive. One disadvantage of amalgam fillings is that their colour makes them noticeable.
Composite: Many people favour this type of filling because its white colour blends in with your tooth. The filling is made from a mixture of plastic and glass. They usually last around ten years.
Gold: Cast-gold fillings are made from gold and other metals. They are very strong and durable. However, gold fillings can be expensive, and their colour stands out against the white of your teeth.
Dental Inlays and Onlays
Some teeth may have too much decay for a simple filling. When this happens, dentists may use an inlay or onlay–methods of covering the surface of a damaged tooth. The difference between an inlay and an onlay is that an inlay covers a smaller area of the tooth, while an onlay covers a larger area. Inlays and onlays are usually made from the same types of materials as fillings.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a hollow cap that sits over the original tooth. It looks and feels like a regular tooth. Crowns are used for several reasons, including repairing broken teeth, covering teeth with large cavities, or after a root canal.
Many people are frightened at the prospect of getting a dental crown, but the procedure is relatively simple. It usually takes two appointments with your dentist. At the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth and take an impression of it. Your permanent crown will be made in a lab and sent back to your dental office. While you are waiting, your dentist may attach a temporary crown. At your second appointment, your dentist will attach your new permanent crown over your natural tooth.
Dental Bridges
Your dentist may recommend a dental bridge, or fixed bridge, to replace one or more missing teeth. Your new replacement tooth is usually fused to crowns on either side of it. A bridge can also be fused to dental implants. Dental bridges usually last about ten years.
Dentures
Dentures are removable replacement teeth. They can replace just one tooth or all of your teeth. Dentures are made by taking custom impressions of your mouth. With proper care, dentures can last from five to ten years.
Dental Implants
Another option for people with missing teeth is dental implants. This solution is permanent and involves attaching a metal post to your jawbone to act as a tooth root. A replacement tooth is later attached to the post, leaving your mouth looking natural and gap-free.
Modern dental patients have many options when it comes to dental restoration. Your dentist can help you choose a dental restoration program that’s right for you.
If you’re looking for dental restoration in Mississauga, look no further than Dr. Hassan El-Awour. Our family-friendly dental office is open 364 days a year!
A root canal treatment is designed to both repair and salvage a tooth that is infected or decaying. During a procedure, the pulp (which is comprised of blood vessels and nerves) is removed, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sealed so bacteria cannot grow. If you suspect you need a root canal treatment and are in search of a dental office in Scarborough, The Tooth Corner is always accepting new patients. Below is information about what a root canal treatment entails as what to expect afterwards.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal Treatment
A common sign that you may be in need of a root canal treatment is tooth pain. However, not all forms of tooth pain is an indicator that a root canal is necessary. You should consult with your dentist if you experience:
Extreme pain in a tooth whenever you’re eating or brushing
Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold that isn’t alleviated once the hot or cold substance has been removed
Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
A small bump on the gums near the source of your tooth pain
Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the source of your tooth pain
Common Causes of Root Canals
Remedying the cause of a root canal is of the utmost importance. There are three common causes of root canals:
Damage: Chips or cracks in a tooth that allows bacteria to lead to tooth decay and pain.
Decay: Inner tooth decay that has spread through the layers of the tooth.
Disease: Severe tooth decay, an injury, cracks or chips in a tooth, recent dental treatments, and large fillings can put a tooth at risk of infection inside the pulp.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Treatment
One of the most common questions patients have is, “How long does a root canal treatment take?” You might be surprised to learn that in many cases, the actual procedure can be completed in 60 to 90 minutes.
During your initial consultation with your dentist, he or she will take x-rays to determine the extent of the root canal infection. The actual root canal treatment may be completed in a single visit, depending on your situation.
While many individuals fear that a root canal procedure will be painful, most discover that the process is similar to that of receiving a dental filling. Before beginning the treatment, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area to make you feel more relaxed. The dentist will then use special tools to extract the pulp and damaged nerves then apply a sealant and a temporary filling to close the area.
What to Expect After a Root Canal Treatment
After your root canal treatment, you may experience some discomfort, sensitivity, or pain which should go away after a period of time. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that’s designed for sensitive teeth can help to alleviate your discomfort. Your dentist will most likely want to see you a few days after your treatment so he or she can remove the temporary filling and place a crown over the tooth to protect it.
We are confident that our Mississauga Dental Office is one of the special one’s out there. Here’s what sets us apart!
Our Tools
We’re always keen on having dental equipment that works. It’s not about the latest equipment or whether it’s state-of-the-art. In fact, some of the more advanced equipment sold to many dental offices don’t perform as some of the older equipment in the market. The older equipment can be more reliable at times. We carefully select dental equipment that is practical, that works and is comfortable for our patients. Also, we avoid useless pricey tools that will impact our bottom line and pinch our patient’s pockets. After all, we like to keep it affordable.
Our Team
Big smiles go a long way. Our staff are amicable and always know how to cheer up your day. They understand that you could be in pain and may be easily irritable and they take that into account when dealing with you. They are extremely patient and experienced, and that makes all the difference in the world.
Our Dentists
The heart of any practice is the dentists who work there. At our Mississauga Dental Office, we’ve hired patient, friendly, and experienced dentists who care about their patients and their oral health. Add to that the many languages they speak and their flexible schedules and you can see how it makes all the difference in the world. We’ve seen them stay late time-and-time again to care for their patients without ever rushing them off. They’re also especially good when it comes to young patients and children, and we all know how difficult it can be to treat a child when it comes to their dental needs.
Our Patients!
As proud as we are in our facility and the great people working in it, what makes us unique is you, our wonderful patients as we couldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for you.
Office Perks
We offer all dental services. We have wisdom teeth extractions, root canals, bridges, veneers, laser or zoom whitening, braces or orthodontics, dental implants, and sedation dentistry or sleep dentistry for kids or anxious patients. Finally, our Mississauga Dental Office is open seven days a week, 364 days a year. So if you need a dentist on Sunday evening, we’ve got you covered. Add to that 0% interest payment plans and the fact that we accept all insurance plans whether government or private and you can quickly see what sets our Mississauga Dental Office apart.
While most people have been encouraged to brush and floss their teeth regularly, it’s a tough habit to establish, especially later in life. That’s why dentists are so keen on helping children start healthy habits early on, so they’re less likely to deal with serious dental problems years down the line because of poor oral health habits. If you’re a parent of a young child, how can you help establish a friendship between kids and their oral health
Start Early
The first key is starting the habit as early as possible, even before they have teeth.
By wiping their gums with a clean, soft cloth or very soft toothbrush, you can help your infant get used to the idea and sensation of oral cleanliness being a regular part of their day. As they get a little older and begin teething, this ritual can be soothing and enjoyable too.
Don’t Assume They’re Doing It Right
While a child of 3 or 4 may be able to move a toothbrush around their mouth and work up a lather, they probably still need some help adequately brushing every tooth.
This isn’t just a matter of being easily distracted or not fully appreciating the importance of doing a thorough job. Instead, they likely don’t yet have the motor skills and coordination necessary to do a really good job brushing everywhere. In this case, assisting children until they’re more in control goes a long way.
Set Goals
Since you want brushing and flossing to be a lifelong habit for your children, it’s important to give them a reason to care about it before they’re old enough to truly appreciate oral health.
Many parents have found that sticker charts work especially well:
Create a simple grid that covers a week and tape it to the bathroom mirror. (There are plenty of free printable charts available online, or you can draw your own.)
Let your child pick out stickers they like and hang them up next to the chart.
Decide on a simple, (non-sugary) privilege or treat your child will earn if they do a good job filling in the sticker chart each time they brush and floss properly.
Be sure to check with your child’s dentist, as they may have similar ideas and materials right there in their office to share with you.
Make it Fun
Along the same lines as the sticker chart suggested above, anything you can do to make maintaining good oral health less tedious and more fun, the better the chance you’re going to teach your kids to love brushing and flossing in the long run.
There are plenty of novelty toothbrushes, floss holders, flavored toothpastes, and other accessory options you can experiment with to make the whole experience more engaging and enjoyable. Sometimes, all it takes to get a young child interested in brushing and flossing regularly is for them to see you doing it and enjoying it. In fact, if you make a habit of participating with them every day, they might look forward to this special time you have together.
It’s Never Too Late
Although it’s certainly preferable for excellent oral health habits to start when a child is young, it’s never too late to establish good patterns.
If your child is already in school and still doesn’t like to brush and floss, there’s not a moment to lose. You may need to be especially creative to find ways to incentivize their participation, but it can be done.
For advice on your kids and their oral health, ask your local Tooth Corner or check back later, we might have another blog in store for you!
Do you ever cringe when you watch someone bite into ice cream? Are you sometimes fearful of that first sip of hot soup or drink of tea? You’re not alone. Sensitive teeth are one of the most common complaints we hear about!
Teeth Become Sensitive When Nerves Are Exposed
On the outside of each tooth is a protective layer of enamel. Over time, the enamel can wear away, leaving an inner layer called the dentin, exposed. This occurs due to normal wear and tear, poor dental hygiene and/or certain lifestyle choices. Dentin contains fluid-filled tubules that reach into the innermost part of the tooth where all the nerves reside. Because the nerves inside the tooth are exposed when the enamel is eroded away, sensitivity is the result. Another form of tooth sensitivity develops when gum recession leaves the root of the tooth exposed to food, drink and air.
Desensitising Toothpaste Can Help
Desensitising toothpastes are a great way to ease tooth sensitivity. Many of our patients ask us how these toothpastes actually work! It’s simple: they are specially formulated to either block the tubules in the dentin, protecting the nerves in the tooth from exposure, or numb your teeth, in a manner of speaking, so you don’t register the pain of sensitivity.
It’s important to remember, however, that if your teeth are at all sensitive, your first stop should be your dentist’s office. Some problems that cause teeth to be sensitive can be quite serious and may require more extensive treatment than desensitising toothpaste can provide.
Follow These Helpful Tips To Avoid Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth can range from mildly annoying to severely painful. To prevent further damage to your teeth, or any sensitivity in the first place, follow the suggestions below:
Practice proper oral hygiene: Gum disease and tooth decay are frequently the cause of tooth sensitivity. Avoid smoking or any form of tobacco use.
Don’t brush so hard: Aggressive brushing or brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause gum recession and enamel erosion. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and don’t apply too much force. Plaque comes off easier than you think!
Protect your teeth: If you clench your teeth frequently or have been diagnosed with bruxism (teeth grinding), make sure you protect your teeth with a night-guard provided to you by your dentist and try to be conscious of your clenching habits during the day.
Make sure your diet is healthy: Eat sugar and carbohydrates in moderation. Drink plenty of water and eat foods that are good for your teeth such as dairy products and vegetables.
Take Our Advice! Don’t Live With Pain!
No matter what your level of discomfort, the tooth corner believe that nobody should have to live with tooth pain. If you experience any kind of sensitivity in your teeth, come in and see us! We can diagnose the root cause of your sensitivity and work out the best way to treat it.
Do you wake up with terrible headaches and a sore jaw? Are your teeth flattened and worn down? If so, you may be in the habit of grinding your teeth. Nighttime Bruixism, or teeth grinding, is when you unconsciously grind your teeth during sleep. This can do loads of damage to not only your teeth but to your jaw as well. That’s why it’s crucial to take action early on before too much damage is done.
One of the best ways to combat grinding your teeth at night is by wearing a night guard. A night guard is a mouthpiece you wear while you sleep that protects your teeth from the dangers of bruxism. They will prevent you from doing any damage to your teeth or jaw from grinding during sleep.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the technical term for grinding your teeth. Most often, the grinding is done unconsciously, so you might not even be aware that you have this issue. Regardless of whether you’re aware of grinding your teeth or not, bruxism is a potentially dangerous condition to have. Grinding your teeth can lead to countless problems such as:
The force from grinding overworks your jaw muscles and causes you to wake up feeling sore. The muscle tenderness from your jaw, teeth, and neck all contribute to your headaches. If the damage is severe enough, you may need to get crowns, veneers, or other restorations to fix your teeth. Night guards will not only lessen your bruxism symptoms but also will save you money in the long run.
Why Night Guards Are Important
Night guards are one of the best ways to reduce and even eliminate your nighttime grinding. Your dentist will simply take an impression of your teeth, send them to a lab, and have a night guard specifically designed for you. Wearing your night guard while you sleep will help protect your teeth from the dangers of grinding and may also prevent you from grinding your teeth altogether. This will help get rid of the headaches you’ve been experiencing as well as any pain or discomfort from your jaw or teeth. Night guards will overall improve the quality of your sleep and help you wake up feeling refreshed instead of groggy and in pain.
Teeth grinding is a hard habit to kick especially if you’re under a lot of stress. Night guards can help you prevent any further damage from bruxism while also giving you a good night’s sleep. Reach out to Dr. Hassan to talk about getting night guards to help relieve your symptoms.
One of the several conditions that affect the gum; surrounding & holding the teeth in the mouth, is receding gums. This occurs, simply by not taking care of your oral health. This can result in the tissue around the teeth to disappear gradually or even recede over time. Many people who are affected by a receding gum often wonder whether it is possible to have it grow back.
Signs of a receding gum
It is important to note that the gum is responsible for protecting the teeth. The gum is made of a soft tissue that is responsible for holding the teeth in place in the jaw region. When there is receding of the gum, it appears as if it is transparent and the teeth will appear in a more prominent way and even become loose.
Causes of a receding gum
One of the major causes of a receding gum is gum disease. Gum disease can be worsened by various conditions such as plaque and tartar build up, tooth decay, dental and poor oral hygiene. This is on top of alcohol use, poor diet, teeth grinding and substance abuse. These can have a large impact on the health of your gums.
Natural treatment for receding gums
There are certain measures that can prevent the problem from becoming more severe. These include:
One of the best way of preventing a receding gum is by establishing a good oral care habit. Avoid pressing hard on the gum as this will only serve to make it recede more. This can also help to get rid of excess bacteria that get trapped in your teeth’s crevices.
Eat healthy foods. The diet may not be a major cause of receding gum. However, it may end up hurting the overall health of your gum. Avoid eating sugary substance that have corn fructose.
Limit your drinking of alcohol and avoid smoking.
Minimize your intake of carbonated soda.
With these measures, it is possible to prevent a receding gum. However, you should still pay a visit to your local Tooth Corner to ensure your oral health is in great condition
